14 handy tips to help you pass your driving test

Published on 12 December, 2018

We've come up with these simple, straightforward tips that we hope will help you pass with flying colours

Overview

Instead of worrying or getting yourself in a tizzy around the test, we've come up with these simple, straightforward tips that we hope will help you pass with flying colours and set you on the road to a safe and fully licensed, lifetime behind the wheel.

Much of it is common sense, but here goes...

1. Know the rules of the road inside out.

2. Get lessons.

If you are doing the Essential Driver Training programme, it's a great foundation, but speak to your instructor if you need more.

3. Before the test, double-check everything is in order, from your vehicle to your paperwork.

4. Get to the test centre early. Doing so gives you a chance to gather your thoughts.

5.  As soon as the test is under way, be confident in your own ability to drive and what you've learned.

6. Always anticipate the actions of others on the road.

7. Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles on the road is vital. Remember the two-second rule - pick out a fixed object, such as a pole, and say 'only a fool breaks the two second rule'. If you pass that same spot before you finish saying that phrase, you are too close.

8. Observe your surroundings on the test, so you can comply with all road traffic signs, traffic lights and road markings.

9. Slow progress at junctions, roundabouts and on straight roads.

10. Trust yourself and don't get nervous or jumpy just because the tester is beside you. Trust your driving ability.

11. Match your driving to suit the conditions, such as weather, road and traffic conditions. Don't speed.

12. Roundabouts can be a nerve-racking proposition. Read up on the dos and don'ts in the Rules of The Road. Everything you need to know about roundabouts is there, and it includes the golden rule of how to picture any roundabout as a clock - it really is a huge help and demystifies one of the biggest worries for inexperienced drivers.

13. Remember, the driver tester knows you are nervous and will try to put you at ease.

14. If you make a mistake, don't worry and don't dwell on it. It may not be as serious as it appears.

The best of luck.